Everything You Should Know Before Getting Your First Horse

Horses are brilliant creatures. You probably know that they are quite fast, clocking up to 80 km/hr with exemplary vision. Provided you learn a thing or two about handling horses as a beginner then they are excellent animals to own. It is worth noting that owning a horse is a significant commitment thus you need to make sure you know all the dos and don’ts before you take the leap. This quick guide will tell you everything you should know before buying your first horse.

Do not get a stallion

You should not attempt to get a stallion as your first horse, no matter what you see in the movies! Stallions tend to be more aggressive and can pose a challenge if you have never owned a horse before. There are plenty of experienced horse owners who still cannot manage to handle a stallion. A better option for you would be a mare.

The breed doesn’t matter

Generally speaking, some breeds of horses have a good reputation for having a calm demeanour. However, it would be unfair to place stereotypes on a horse based on its breed. For instance, not all Thoroughbreds will be feisty and hard to control. We suggest you assess the horse’s individual traits and personality instead of only focusing on the breed.

Seek help

Don’t hesitate to seek help as a beginner. For example, it is best to take an experienced vet along with you to view the horse you would like to buy. Your vet can help you determine whether the horse has been chipped and help you retrieve data from the chip. You should also speak to a trainer who can help you learn how to handle horses as a beginner. Many pro trainers recommend getting a bespoke round pen for horses to encourage them to relax. It also gives you a chance to relax, communicate and build your relationship with the horse. Ensure you also seek pro help on a nutrient-rich diet to feed your new companion.

Tip: Beware of sellers who won’t allow you to bring professionals like a vet to the viewing.

Opt for older horses

You wouldn’t want to take on the added challenge of training a young horse when you are new to horses yourself. As you shop around for a horse to buy, we suggest you choose one that has undergone essential training. You can always go back and pick a younger horse to train as you gain more experience.

Select a relaxed horse

As a beginner to horses and horse riding, you are better off choosing a calm horse over a feisty one. During your initial visit, pay close attention to how the horse behaves around you. An excellent way to eliminate antsy or aggressive horses is by steering clear of any horse described as “spirited,” as they tend to be too difficult for a beginner to control.

Always ask for the horse’s passport

The horse’s passport will tell you all you need to know about it, including its age and breed. If you see a horse you like, ask the vendor to show you its passport and ascertain the details are correct. A common red flag is a dishonest vendor or one who doesn’t have a passport for the horse they are selling.

Like any other animal, a horse requires love and care. As you have seen, there are also plenty of costs associated with owning a horse. We hope you now know what to look out for in a horse. Don’t forget to prepare your space to welcome your new friend. Again, seek help to help you get accustomed to horse management and riding faster.